These days, reaching retirement age no longer means 12 hours of daytime television interspersed with the occasional trip to the bingo hall.

Longer lifespans and more expendable income means older men and women are now spending their twilight years travelling the globe.

In fact, there are now companies set up to accompany these people on trips when their age means it is no longer practical for them to travel alone.

Companies are now renting out expert travellers to accompany people on trips when their age means it is no longer practical for them to travel alone (stock image)

Elderly men and women who need some day-to-day assistance can pay for a travel companion to join them on a trip 24/7.

Companies like Flying Companions, based in Atlanta, Georgia, offer the services of a person who will take charge of all the travel details, administer rest stops, push a wheelchair, carry luggage and be on hand for anything else deemed necessary, including toilet breaks.

A spokesperson for Flying Companions said on their website: 'Our travel companions can pick you up at your home or meet you at your departure airport.